The RCMP has arrested the suspected ringleader of a massive grandparent scam operation in Montreal that allegedly defrauded elderly Canadians out of over $2 million.
The 34-year-old man was arrested on July 2 following an investigation by the RCMP’s financial crime unit. He is accused of running a network that targeted seniors across Canada by impersonating family members—often grandchildren—in urgent legal trouble and demanding large sums of money to secure their release.
Victims were convinced to hand over cash to couriers sent to their homes. In some cases, multiple payments were extracted from the same victim. Authorities say the operation involved more than 140 incidents and used fake names, legal threats, and elaborate scripts to create a sense of urgency.
RCMP officials believe this group is linked to a larger fraud network responsible for over $2.2 million in losses to seniors across Canada. The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests are possible.
The accused remains in custody and is facing charges related to fraud over $5,000, identity fraud, and conspiracy.
Law enforcement continues to remind Canadians—especially seniors and their families—to be cautious of unsolicited calls requesting money, and to verify any claims independently before taking action.
